2016 Mercedes-Benz Vito 2.1L Diesel · EY16 AEM

The 2.1-litre CDI diesel in the Vito typically returns around 36-42 mpg depending on load and driving style, which is reasonable for a vehicle of this size. Road tax for a diesel van of this age generally falls into a higher bracket than an equivalent petrol car, so expect an annual VED bill in the region of £250-£300 unless it qualifies for the commercial vehicle discount. Insurance grouping for the Vito tends to sit in the higher commercial van groups, so quotes should be obtained before purchase — typically in the £600-£1,000 per year range for a typical user.

Routine maintenance such as oil services, brake fluid changes and filter renewals is broadly comparable to other commercial diesels, but genuine Mercedes parts and dealer labour rates are noticeably more expensive than aftermarket equivalents. Expect a major service to be in the £300-£500 range at an independent specialist, and considerably more at a main dealer. The estimated annual running cost, allowing for fuel, tax, insurance and routine maintenance, is in the region of £2,500-£3,200 depending on mileage and usage pattern.

Start with a physical inspection of the rear braking system, as the 2025 MOT flagged both rear discs as worn and pitted and the offside rear pads as wearing thin. Even if the vehicle passes a current inspection, the discs may be close to or beyond their useful service life. Jack the vehicle and check disc run-out visually; if the disc surface shows deep grooving or a lip on the outer edge, replacement is overdue. Also verify that the rear parking brake holds the vehicle on a slope — the 2025 test noted it only just met requirements.

The 2.1-litre OM651 diesel used in this Vito is known to suffer from timing chain stretch on higher-mileage examples, so listen carefully on a cold start for any rattle from the front of the engine that lasts more than a second or two. Check the oil level and look inside the oil filler cap for any signs of mayonnaise-like residue, which would suggest a head gasket or EGR cooler issue. Inspect the condition of the turbocharger pipework for oil seepage, and confirm that the AdBlue tank is filled and the system has no warning lights illuminated.

Finally, check the bodywork for signs of damage commensurate with commercial use — dents in the load area, scuffed bumpers, and any signs of accident repair on the front end. The 2024 MOT advisory on both front tyres wearing on the edge is worth probing: if the tyres were wearing on the inside or outside edge specifically, this could indicate worn front suspension components or tracking issues that may not have been rectified.